Over the past week or so, there's been a new scam targeting parents – and the intentions of the scam could be potentially putting you or your family in danger. Here's all you need to know.
We're bombarded with potential scams all day every day – in your email, on social media, on the phone, in the mail, and even your text message inbox. There are so many scams out there, and most are easy to spot, that it takes something a little out of the ordinary for us to pay it anything more than zero attention.
Texts made to look like a delivery company telling you a package didn't get delivered and you need to log in to find out why are easy to dismiss if you don't get packages delivered – but a text that looks like it's from your kid is a different story, and experts say it's intentions are no good.
I found a copy of the text I had already deleted from my phone (because I don't have kids), but this mom shared a warning about the message. According to the comments, she's not the only one who has gotten it.
If you can't read that message, here it is:
"Hi mom, sorry I'm messaging you off my friends phone I've broke mine could you message me on 1-249-500-3501 its urgent"
It's a scary message to get as a parent because you're going to do anything to help your kid – and if they say "It's urgent" it'll raise the hairs on the back of your neck and make your Spidey Senses tingle.
via GIPHY
If you receive one of these messages, give your kid a ring on their actual phone first before responding, and talk with your kids about having a secret codeword to use if they have to text you from someone else's phone. That way, you won't disregard an actual message from your child.
The intentions behind the message aren't known, but experts say not to respond to that number, and the best idea is to give it a block once you confirm with your child that it's not them in need
Stay safe out there, and keep an eye out for these scams.

Gallery Credit: Laura Ratliff

source